Interesting results from Jabeen et al. that many of us might have missed, as they are published in a mycology journal and not in an infection control journal.  Persistence of Candida spp. on latex and nitrile gloves was highest for C. auris and C. parapsilosis.  Interestingly, persistence on nitril gloves was generally less than on latex gloves. Transmission of Candida spp. from gloves (latex, nitril not tested)  to urinary catheter surface was most effective for C. auris and C. albicans.

To be frank, the chosen methods and set-up of the experiments leave quite some room for improvement, but the basic idea of the experiment and the message it conveys are – while not new – of importance: Glove use can be an important factor in the spread of all microorganisms, and in this case, especially C. auris.

Previously it has been shown that glove-use may negatively effect hand hygiene behavior. After years of focusing our attention on hand hygiene compliance and hand-rub technique, this publication is an important reminder, to not forget about adequate glove-use.

Jabeen K, Mal PB, Tharwani A,Hashmi M, Farooqi J. Persistence of Candida auris on latex and nitrile gloves with transmission to sterile urinary catheters.  Medical Mycology, 2019, 0, 1–5 doi: 10.1093/mmy/myz033 Advance Access Publication Date: 0 2019